Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Although this timeframe may not seem lengthy, I have acquired various insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing options and lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student accommodation and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
In my pursuit of housing, I targeted a room rental in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most heart of the city. London’s transit network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it straightforward to navigate and travel across zones. To mitigate travel expenses, considering that inter-zonal fares can rise to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Options for Oyster cards have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate depending on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time during errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural richness, providing a diverse mosaic of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity in London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean populace and thriving music culture. Chinatown, positioned at the core of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave abundant with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.